Batelco, Bahrain’s leading telecom provider, has launched the first 3G MicroSIM, the latest technology in mobile and SIM Technology, in the market.

The MicroSIM, which is about 52 per cent smaller than the standard SIM was introduced due to the need for very small cards which are used in Apple iPhone 4, Apple 3G iPads, digital cameras and the new generation of smartphones, a company statement said.

Batelco is offering the MicroSIM for all its mobile customers whether they are subscribed to Postpaid, Prepaid or Mobile Broadband. Any customer interested in replacing their current SIM card with the new MicroSIM may visit any of Batelco’s retail shops where the cards are available for a BD2 fee, it said.

“Batelco always aims to remain ahead of competitors by being first to deliver enhanced products and services for the Bahrain market,” said Batelco Group general manager media and government relations Ahmed Al Janahi.

Currently, Batelco offers a limited quantity of the iPad 3G devices, and encourages customers to avail of the interest-free monthly instalment plan available for the product, starting from BD 28.5.

Meanwhile, Batelco has extended its Blackberry service for prepaid customers also. Prepaid customers can activate the service on their Blackberry device by simply sending the text ‘ABB’ to 4554. The initial subscription, which costs BD8, will be deducted from the customer’s credit.

The prepaid “BlackBerry SimSim” includes 30 days BlackBerry services duration and 100 MB Blackberry Data with any additional data usage charged at 12 fils per MB.

Customers will then refill their BlackBerry account by send “RBB” which will cost BD8 which will refill the account by adding BD8 and 30days duration and accumulate on the existing data and duration, the company said. –TradeArabia News Service